Broadcasting: Does It Belong in the Department of Speech? Traditional Concepts in Speech and Broadcasting.

Greene, Robert J.

Educational institutions were among the pioneers in the development of radio broadcasting. By 1938, over 300 colleges reported offering at least one course in radio. In more recent times the surveys compiled by Harold Niven for the "Journal of Broadcasting" show a continued interest in broadcasting courses. The trend is toward Communications or Radio-TV Departments. Three general philosophies have arisen about how to best teach students about broadcasting: (1) the liberal arts philosophy, an introduction to the field of broadcasting; (2) the practical philosophy, an attempt to furnish complete professional training for employment; and (3) the liberal professional philosophy, a broad liberal arts background plus professional training for first job skills and a basic knowledge of the industry. The practical, professional curriculum has drawbacks: half of all broadcast majors do not find jobs in broadcasting; and acting, writing, and directing, which are most exciting to students and most appealing to teachers, are least likely to provide work opportunities for graduates. (WR)